An out of this world-class production. Images shot by world-renowned fashion lensman Steven Meisel for Italian Vogue’s July issue.  Exquisite couture frocks: Missoni, Cavalli, de la Renta are draped on the frames of if-looks-could-kill models. (On set, I imagine stylists, creative directors, makeup artists, their minions, assistants, and interns swirled and raced to and fro to be sure everything was just so and not too, too.)

What may sound like any “fabulous” high-fashion shoot and its resulting spread or a slightly more-down-to-earth clip from America’s Next Top Model is truly  an even more extraordinary authentic, in-print first.  

Mr. Meisel’s posing mannequins don’t fit what has been the fashion industry’s hushed-or-worst-still- unspoken-rule-but-not-at-all-a-secret that it (the industry) has long preferred its models fair and toothpick thin; a subscription that leaves women—like me—feeling like an airplane passenger neighbor never greeted, seen but not worth the time.

But all Mr. Meisel’s subjects, though they fit designer sample sized duds (usually 2 or 4), the beyond-gorg gals are raven, caramel, and honey-toned in complexion.

While “Conspicuous by Their Presence” author Cathy Horyn’s interviews with fashion-mavens including Iman and Bethann Hardison suggests diversity (though sometimes contrived) has “improved” over the years, they also maintain that the “industry” is still NI (in need of improvement). Well, but of course!

Thank goodness for platforms like O, the Oprah Magazine, Marie Claire, Essence, Lucky, and ivillage.com that celebrate women for their diversity. And, though only annually in it’s Shape Issue, American Vogue has in recent years featured a few women close to an American woman’s average size 12. In support of its sister publication, I’m sure, the July 2008 issue American Vogue recognizes three black supermodels-in-the-making, Jourdan Dunn, Chanel Iman, and Arelis.

Kudos to Steven for setting the precedent. Hopefully with fotogs like him and ”Love the Skin You’re In” campaigns launched by Dove leading the way the trend of including women of every shape, size, skin-tone, ethnicity, hair length and texture will become the new standard in fashion and beauty. I mean, it’s ideal.

Until we’ll fully there…you be you! Be beauty-full!

Tai

Hi Ladies,

Like any other day, I chatted (or at least corresponded) with a few girlfriends yesterday. At some point during our communication I posed these simple questions, “Have you purchased Father’s Day gifts yet? What did you buy?”

I wasn’t surprised to learn that while they all look forward to indulging the men in their lives, few, with less than 72 hours ‘til the “big” day, have put their dollars or credit cards where their hearts are.

The answers were entertaining…to say the least.

Friend #1:

“Mrs. M” (35 years, Married 4 years, 1 child and very pregnant) said, “I find this to be a very interesting question that intrigues me…”

Clearly she hasn’t made a purchase!

Friend #2:

“Mrs. J” (31 years, Married 4 years, 2 children) said, “Yes. Of course! I actually gave it to him last night. He loved his giftsssss: a French-cuffed shirt, Paul Smith cufflinks, and  tie. He’ll wear them to an event where he’s being honored this Saturday."

Good for you Mrs. J!!! She’s the sweetest, superwoman-mother-wife I know. (Really!)

Friend #3:

“Miss B” (31, In a Relationship, no children) said, “Oh my gosh! Shucks! I need to buy something!! Any ideas?”

Of course, Miss B! In fact, I have ideas for you and Mrs. M.…and all the Mrs.-es, Misses, and Ms-es, A-Z.

Three tips to last-minute, stress-free shopping for him:

• Keep him at the forefront of your mind…of course. (You don’t want to get sidetracked when shopping.)
• Consider his likes, dislikes, wardrobe and valet needs, his lifestyle…of course.

And the not so obvious:

• Think about you, too!

After all (in the case of a stylish but practical gift), what’s good for the gander can be great for the goose. The perfect gift for him is one that you can borrow.

The Every-Man-Will-Like list:

Acqua Di Parma Capri Orange EDT, 2 oz. Spray, $64, Saksfifthavenue.com. I don’t usually suggest a woman wear a man’s cologne or vice versa. But Acqua Di Parma scents are gender neutral. This scent will transport anyone to a citrus grove in Capri. Call it a vacation in a bottle.

Cole Haan Duffle Perri Collection, $250, colehaan.com. Whether he’s stopping off at the gym or spending a few days golfing with the fellas, this nautical-hued carry-all is equal part handsome and chic. He’ll throw it over his shoulder for his trip, but when you jet set, you’ll carry it in the crease of your arm.

Enter code: MENSALE at checkout for 20% off.

Banana Republic Slim Fit Geo Floral Dress Shirt, $59, bananarepublic.com. Striped shirts are a safe choice. There’s something so sexy, sensitive, and confident about a man in a delicately patterned shirt. When it’s your turn to wear it, pair it with a wide belt worn high on your waist.

Locman Tremila Watch in Orange, $795, barneys.com. Paired with a polo or oxford shirt, this time keeper is sooooo GQ. On you? It’s oversized face and band looks sporty but feminine when matched delicate bangles.

Ray-Ban Original Aviator Sunglasses, $129, macys.com. Up the cool factor of any guy in your life while keeping his style clean and traditional.

Man-ly and Pedi-cure, $95 at Bliss Spa, blissworld.com. I know, I know…most guys are slow to admit it…but who doesn’t enjoy being pampered (just a little bit) every now and again? Bliss’ signature Man-ly Cure was created with him in mind. If Bliss hasn’t come to your town (just yet), you’re favorite local nail salon will serve him the royal treatment, too.

Good luck, happy shopping and happy Father’s Day!

Tai